Photography

Delve into imaging and visual culture

Heron's photography program approaches image making as a fused, hybrid practice of analog and digital image production and associated media.

Exploring the full spectrum of photography as a fine art, you will pair film and historical processes with new technologies as well as still and moving images.

You will be challenged to define and reexamine the photographer’s role in contemporary art and society. Your professors will not only encourage your personal growth and artistic voice, but also help develop your technical proficiency and conceptual and aesthetic development.

During senior year, you will immerse yourself in an internship to gain experience in a chosen area or focus while engaging with the Indianapolis metropolitan area. Finally, you will emerge with the skills and confidence to thrive as a professional fine art or commercial photographer.

Communal environments

Our photography program and facilities are designed to foster an intermingling of people, materials, and ideas. You will have access to dedicated space for creative work, supported by both peers and faculty who will provide you with unique perspectives on contemporary imaging.

Industry luminaries

Our faculty are engaged and connected with arts communities far and wide. Each semester, you will interact with an array of industry professions – from visual artists to curators – through presentations, workshops, and critiques. These experiences will help you gain exposure to professional practices and provide you with valuable feedback.

Plan of study

B.F.A. degree map

Critical courses and milestones for each semester towards a B.F.A. in photography

IUPUI campus bulletin

Required course names and descriptions for a B.F.A. in photography

The [photography] program teaches you to constantly better yourself in every area ... I learned how to further myself technically and conceptually, and [to] master each one simultaneously.
Dana Kalachnik (B.F.A. Photography '17)

Foundation studies

Your first year at Herron focuses on skills that are crucial to your success in art and design school. You will explore basic principles and techniques, as well as your own historical, cultural, and personal influences as an artist or designer.

Learn more about foundation studies

Facilities

With 15,000 square feet of space, Herron’s photography program has one of the largest footprints of the school. You’ll have access any time of the day or night to our specialized labs, darkrooms, computer labs, finishing areas, exhibition space, and a professional lighting studio.

Black-and-white darkrooms for silver gelatin prints
Non-silver and historical print processes
Medium- and large-format color film developing
35mm, DV, DSLR, and medium- and large-format cameras
Hasselblad digital backs
Lighting studio with professional kits and equipment

Chromogenic lab
Mac computer labs with advanced editing software
Large-format Canon and Epson digital printers
Mikrotek and Flextight scanners
Finishing room with a Coda Cold-Mount press
Installation space with gallery lighting

Enhance your degree

Pursuing a minor or certificate can help broaden your perspective and give you a competitive advantage in your chosen field.

Minor in Art History

Minor in Studio Art & Technology

Professional opportunities

The careers of our photography graduates encompass diverse roles and environments. Students have opened their own professional studios, become exhibiting visual artists, or gone onto graduate school to pursue teaching positions at colleges and universities. The path you take is determined by your interests and the limits of your imagination.

Pursue your calling as a professional: